decision cannot be reached

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decision cannot be reached" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a conclusion or agreement has not been achieved, often in discussions, negotiations, or decision-making processes. Example: "After hours of deliberation, it was clear that a decision cannot be reached at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In addition, in case where a decision cannot be reached after aggregating all the sensing reports, the FC considers that the primary user is transmitting to avoid interference.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Moreover, a sensing report with low weight will be counted only if a final decision cannot be reached after combining all the other sensing reports with weight.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Advice will be sought from the clinical chief investigator and other clinicians may be asked if a decision cannot be reached.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Science and socialism, to the extent that they ultimately involve ideas and ideals, objects and objectives, and require decisions that cannot be reached by idealized inferences or calculations alone, will stand or fall together as foundations.

SEP

Further investment and purchasing decisions that cannot be reached so simply require more complex health economic modelling approaches.

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

Any outstanding cases will go to an adjudicatory panel for a final decision if agreement cannot be reached.

BBC

Because a firm decision on these matters cannot be reached at present because of a lack of evidence, we decided to take a pragmatic course and compare E-Screen low-effect dose estimates with both serum and adipose tissue levels.

Environmental Health Perspectives

A conclusion that is applicable nationwide thus cannot be reached.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Sources within the leadership group say they would be surprised if an agreement cannot be reached, suggesting the "nuclear option" of handing the decision to communities secretary Eric Pickles would be something all parties would find difficult to swallow.

BBC

The decision of a third reviewer will determine study eligibility in instances where consensus cannot be reached.

BMJ Open

Disagreements will be resolved through consensus and if consensus cannot be reached, the research team leads will be consulted to determine final decision.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "decision cannot be reached", ensure the context clearly indicates why the decision is impossible. Providing context strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a "decision cannot be reached" without explaining the underlying reasons or complexities that prevent resolution. Add context or specific reasons.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decision cannot be reached" functions as a statement indicating an inability to arrive at a conclusion or agreement. Ludwig AI confirms this is acceptable for standard use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "decision cannot be reached" is grammatically correct and signals an impasse or inability to come to a conclusion. Ludwig AI provides examples across scientific literature and news media, showing its versatility. While not the most frequent expression, it is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. When using the phrase, it is best practice to provide the reason for the decision blockage. Consider alternatives such as "agreement could not be achieved" if a lack of consensus is the primary reason for the impasse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

agreement could not be achieved

Focuses on the lack of agreement, rather than the inability to decide.

resolution is unattainable

Emphasizes the impossibility of finding a solution.

impasse has been reached

Highlights the state of deadlock in a negotiation or discussion.

no consensus could be formed

Focuses on the lack of agreement among multiple parties.

deadlock is unavoidable

Indicates an inevitable standstill.

a conclusion is impossible

Highlights the impossibility to reach a conclusion.

settlement is out of reach

Focuses on the impossibility of setting the terms of an agreement.

no determination can be made

Emphasizes that it's impossible to determine the outcome.

the matter remains unresolved

Indicates the issue hasn't been decided or settled.

the situation is at a standstill

Emphasizes the lack of movement or progress.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "decision cannot be reached"?

Use "decision cannot be reached" when discussions, negotiations, or deliberations have failed to produce a conclusion or agreement. It implies an impasse or deadlock.

What are some alternative ways to express that a decision is not possible?

You can use phrases like "agreement could not be achieved", "resolution is unattainable", or "impasse has been reached" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "decision cannot be reached" formal or informal?

The phrase "decision cannot be reached" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language.

What is the difference between "decision cannot be reached" and "no decision has been made"?

"Decision cannot be reached" implies an inability to come to a conclusion, often due to disagreement or complexity. "No decision has been made" simply indicates that a decision is pending or has not yet occurred.